January: Columbus Museum's lineup

Treat your visiting family and out-of-school kids to an adventure at The Columbus Museum. It has a packed schedule of events for January and several exhibitions to view. From kid-friendly art events to adult parties and activities, the museum offers something for every age group.

The Columbus Museum has a packed schedule of events for January and several exhibitions to view. From kid-friendly art events to adult parties and activities, the museum offers something for every age group.

Wednesday, Jan. 9: noon-1 p.m.

Art & Artist Book Club: Portrait of an Unknown Woman: The Art and Artist Book Club features works of fiction that explore various topics related to the history of art. Museum curators and educators provide a contextual analysis of the art and artists featured in the book of the month. On Jan. 9th, Kristen Miller Zohn, Curator of Collections and Exhibitions presents "Portrait of an Unknown Woman" by Vanora Bennett. The program is free and open to the public. For more information call the Education Assistant at 706-748-2562, ext. 651 or email sworley@columbusmuseum.com. FREE

Thursday, Jan. 17: 6-8 p.m.

Third Thursdays: Strumming through 17th & 18th century: Interested in experiencing the Columbus Museum in a whole new way? Then join us for an after-hours experience on the Third Thursday of each month. Listen to live music, take tours of special exhibitions and participate in artist talks. Third Thursdays are free, no reservations are required and refreshments are provided. Classical Guitarist Robert Sharpe entertains. FREE

Friday, Jan. 18: 7-9 p.m.

Contours, Cocktails and Connoisseurs: Have you ever fancied yourself a Rembrandt in-the-making, but didn’t know where to start? Put a paintbrush and a drink in your hand as Columbus’ own Jill Philips guides you step by step towards creating your own masterpiece as you spend a casual evening with friends at the museum. Please reserve your seat by January 14th by contacting Laura Narr at lnarr@columbusmuseum.com or 706-748-2562 ext.544. $25 for museum members and $35 for nonmembers. Includes all materials, drinks and light fare.

Saturday, Jan. 19: 1-3 p.m.

Art Detectives: Become part of Chicken George’s Gumshoe Crew, grab a magnifying glass, and get ready to go on an exciting detective hunt through the museum. Search for clues that will lead you to works of art, create your own projects, and even become part of a painting during this fun-filled family-friendly afternoon! Pre-register by January 8th at 706-748-2562 ext. 651 or sworley@columbusmuseum.com. Ages: 5-10; $10 for museum members and $15 for non-members.

Saturday, Jan. 26: 5:30-10 p.m.

Dolley Madison Squeeze: Experience the parties of the early 19th century at the Museum. During this era, parties such as this were filled with music, dancing, and other revelries. First Lady Dolley Madisonwas known for her parties, which were called “squeezes,” due to their popularity. Experience a “squeeze” as you listen to live music, learn dances, partake of period foods, have your portrait taken to resemble the Museum’s Gilbert Stuart portrait, participate in a silent auction for amazing reproduction period items, and take a tour of the Museum’s portrait collection! Please register by January 19th by contacting the Education Assistant at 706-748-2562 ext. 651 or sworley@columbusmuseum.com. $25 for museum members and $30 for non-members.

Exhibits currently on view: “Beautiful and Practical: Newcomb College and American Art Pottery,” is on view through Jan. 6. “Dawn Black Conceal Project,” closes Feb. 24, Black’s project examines the practice of masquerade, especially in relation to identity. Three hundred postcard sized works on paper painted in watercolor, ink and gouache present portraits of individuals altering their identity through masks. “Growing Up in the Valley: Stories of Childhood from the Permanent Collection Exhibit:” closes March 3. The exhibit examines the experiences of the Valley’s youngest residents in times of laughter and tears, and will display historic toys, children’s clothing, photographs, school memorabilia, and other artifacts.